Discussion

Quiet drinks suggestions?

I'll be visiting Toronto in a couple of weeks (first time), and am meeting a friend who will also be coming from out of town (again, first time in Toronto).

We've got dinner and lunch plans sorted out for the few days we're visiting, but I'm interested in trying to find somewhere for drinks on Friday and Saturday night after dinner. Places on the more quiet side are preferred, but this doesn't mean you have to be able to hear a pin drop. I would prefer to stay away from dance clubs and the like. Somewhere that has a relaxed vibe where we can sit back, drink a couple of bottles of wine and be able to hear one another without shouting.

We are staying in the Annex area, and are having dinner downtown both nights - JKWB (my choice) and Barberian's (his choice), so perhaps somewhere local to any of these would be good options. Suggestions anyone?

I second JKWB - great spot. The bar at Harbour 60 is very nice with good atmosphere as well, though expensive. You may want to consider Canoe - it will be relatively quiet after dinner and the view from the 54th floor of the TD Centre is spectacular. There is also Caren's wine bar in Yorkville, though I have not been in at least a year.

Since you're in the Annex, the bar at the Four Seasons would work out nicely. I think it's called Avenue Bar, and if you get a table by the window, you'll have a nice view of the people walking along Avenue Road. No one will rush you out here.

Since you're both a couple of out of towners, how about some bars with a nice view of the City:

1) my fav is the Rooftop lounge at the Park Hyatt Hotel (northwest corner of Avenue Road and Bloor). A bit on the pricey side, but the atmosphere is great, the staff attentive and some of the best bartenders in the city. Plus the view from the 18th floor looking down University Ave is magnificent.http://parktoronto.hyatt.com/hyatt/ho...

2. Vertical Lounge at 100 King is a nice place and the bartenders know their stuff if you want something other than a martini or a cosmo.

3. The Panorama Lounge at the Manulife Building (Bay and Bloor) on the 51st floor (I think) has a great view of the city and is very relaxed.

4. The Brassai on King is a quiet bar. I like the big couchs for relaxing. Haven't been there in awhile though I suspect it hasn't cvhanged much .http://www.brassaii.com/gallery.htm

Absolutely second the Rooftop, and Panorama! Both allow for conversation, both offer stunning views of the city. I'd recommend the Rooftop around sunset, and Panorama when it's dark. Unfortunately, it's still too cold, or I'd also recommend some of the Yorkville area patios.